RRI.CO.ID, Surabaya - The breathtaking Tumpak Sewu waterfall has cemented its status as the crown jewel of East Java’s ecotourism, drawing a surge of international and domestic travelers to Lumajang regency and sparking significant economic transformation for local communities.

Renowned globally as the “Niagara of Indonesia” for its sweeping, curtain‑like cascade, Tumpak Sewu has successfully placed Lumajang on the international travel map.

Data from the East Java Provincial Tourism and Culture Agency show that the waterfall complex, along with the nearby Teras Semeru lookout, attracted about 22,090 foreign visitors between March 14 and April 5, 2026.

This surge contributed to Lumajang’s exceptional first‑quarter performance. Total arrivals reached 476,062, surpassing the local tourism board’s target of 450,000. Domestic tourists accounted for 460,036 visits, while 16,026 came from overseas.

Lumajang Regent Indah Amperawati, speaking at a House of Representatives Budget Committee forum in Surabaya on Thursday, July 16, 2026, welcomed the growth trend and highlighted the far‑reaching economic benefits of Tumpak Sewu’s rising popularity.

“Alhamdulillah, this year the visits of foreign tourists to Lumajang are showing a very good trend. Tumpak Sewu, known as the ‘Niagara of Indonesia,’ has become one of the main attractions bringing tourists to our region,” Indah said, as quoted by Infopublik.id.

The Regent, affectionately known as Bunda Indah, emphasized that the true success of tourism lies in its economic multiplier effects.

The steady flow of international travelers has created immediate opportunities for micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), homestays, culinary businesses, transport services, local tour guides, and creative economy artisans across scenic zones.

Looking ahead, the local administration pledged to ensure sustainable growth. Indah said the administration will continue to strengthen digital promotional campaigns, improve service delivery, and enforce strict environmental conservation measures.

Through collaboration among regulators, private businesses, and local communities, Lumajang’s government is confident that ecotourism will remain a key driver of regional development while preserving the regency’s natural assets for future generations. ***